Engaging interactivity in eLearning: Review of practices and challenges in Sri Lanka

Abstract

eLearning has been evolving with the technology. Further it is being improved and optimized in a way that the learner will engage in eLearning more closely in their daily learning life. eLearning theories have been blended with different pedagogical designs relating to interactivity practices. In this research, firstly, different categories of the eLearning practices were identified and how they have been used in Sri Lankan academic institutions were surveyed. According to the literature, quality of eLearning depends on how far the concept of interactivity is addressed. Literature also highlights that the quality of eLearning will improve if there is more interactivity involved in eLearning. Therefore, secondly, the insufficiency of the engagement of interactivity in the use of eLearning in Sri Lankan academic institutions was identified as a problem, for which a solution is sought in this research. Thirdly based on observations and interviews with 23 Universities and academic institutions in Sri Lanka, the level of the involvement of interactivity in Sri Lankan eLearning context is examined using a framework proposed for measuring interactivity. Finally, in relation to the interactivity, new improvement and suggestions to be included in the eLearning practices of Sri Lankan academic institutions are recommended, so that the quality of online and blended education in Sri Lanka will improve.